Scarlet Macaw

Habitat

Lowland tropical forest throughout Central and South America..

Wild Diet

Fruit, seeds,nuts and leaves. These macaws can be found with large gatherings of other macaw species on the Clay Mountains in South America, where they ingest the clay for its nutritional benefits. The clay helps them to digest poisonous chemicals that are found in the unripe fruit they eat.

Behaviour

Macaws are a member of the parrot family � a species of bird that have been tamed and raised in captivity more than any other birds. They appeal to us due to their bright coloured feathers, inquisitive natures and their ability to imitate the human voice.

Breeding

These macaws usually breed between October and April, with a clutch of 1-4 eggs hatching after a month long incubation.

Threats

Scarlet macaws have unfortunately been heavily hunted for the illegal pet trade. Limited nest sites are also under threat from habitat destruction.